The family of Swindon man Neil Bambrick have paid tribute to him after a man was found guilty of his murder.

Vincent Sparkes, 44, from Station Road was sentenced to life in prison on Monday, May 13, after being found guilty by a jury. 

Reacting to the news in a moving tribute, Neil’s family said: “We would like to say we are so happy we got the outcome that we wanted.

“Justice has been served.

“Neil was sadly stolen away from us through knife crime – it's left a big hole in our hearts.

Swindon Advertiser: Murder victim Neil BambrickMurder victim Neil Bambrick (Image: Wiltshire Police)

“If you knew Neil, he was such a happy, friendly, loving character who would do anything for anyone.

“Nothing was a problem, if he could help you he would.

“May you rest in peace Bambo.

“All the family miss you so much, you’ll never be forgotten. Love all your family." 

At around 8.55pm on July 11, Sparkes and Mr Bambrick, who had been a volunteer at Swindon Street Friends, were involved in an altercation in the street when Sparkes headbutted Mr Bambrick before pulling out a knife and inflicting a single wound to the chest.

Mr Bambrick, who was not carrying a weapon, was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

But despite the best efforts of the emergency services, he died in the early hours of the following morning in hospital.